Planning a trip to Kenya this season? While the country remains one of Africa’s top safari and adventure destinations, recent developments have introduced new challenges for international travelers. From civil unrest to technical failures in visa processing, here’s what you need to know before packing your bags.
🚨 Civil Unrest and Safety Concerns
Kenya has seen a wave of anti-government protests, particularly in Nairobi and western regions. These demonstrations have turned violent, resulting in over 16 deaths and hundreds of injuries. The unrest stems from political tensions and economic grievances, with police reportedly using tear gas and live ammunition to disperse crowds.
Foreign travel advisories now urge visitors to:
- Avoid large gatherings and protest zones
- Monitor local news and embassy alerts
- Exercise caution in urban areas, especially during anniversaries of past protests
🛂 ETA System Failures Disrupt Entry
Kenya’s Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system — required for most foreign visitors — is experiencing widespread outages. Travelers have reported:
- Application delays and payment failures
- Stranded arrivals at airports due to unprocessed ETAs
- Canceled bookings and last-minute itinerary changes
The Kenya Tourism Federation (KTF) has called for urgent government intervention, warning that the system failures are damaging the country’s reputation and hurting tourism revenue.
⚠️ Regional Travel Warnings
Several regions in Kenya remain under Level 3 and 4 travel advisories, including:
- Garissa, Mandera, and Wajir counties near the Somalia border
- Tana River County, parts of Turkana and Marsabit
- Eastleigh and Kibera neighborhoods in Nairobi
These areas are flagged due to risks of terrorism, crime, and kidnapping. Travelers are advised to stick to well-known tourist circuits and avoid high-risk zones.
✈️ What Travelers Should Do
To navigate these disruptions safely:
- ✅ Confirm your ETA approval before departure
- 🛡️ Purchase comprehensive travel insurance, including medical evacuation
- 📱 Stay updated via official embassy channels and local news
- 🧭 Consider alternative destinations or low-risk regions like Naivasha, Maasai Mara, and coastal resorts
